Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition. People with bipolar disorder may experience disruptive symptoms that affect their mood and energy levels. In the past, people referred to this condition as “manic depression” because it can cause manic and depressive episodes.
People with bipolar disorder require treatment to help them manage this condition. Treatment for bipolar disorder includes medications, talk therapy, lifestyle changes, and other holistic therapies.
This article will explore some of the best therapies used to treat bipolar disorder. You will learn:
- The symptoms of three types of bipolar disorder
- What to expect during treatment for bipolar disorder
- Details about common therapies used to treat bipolar disorder
- Where to find comprehensive mental health treatment
If you or a loved one need treatment for bipolar disorder or another mental health disorder, you are not alone. Contact the Agape Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our effective treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition. There are three types of bipolar disorder. Here is an overview of these conditions.
Bipolar I
Bipolar I disorder is a condition causing manic symptoms that last a week or more. During manic episodes, people may exhibit symptoms that include:
- Excessive energy
- Irritability
- Elevated mood
- Increased activity levels
People may require hospitalization to stabilize during a manic episode. People with bipolar I disorder may also experience depressive episodes lasting at least two weeks. During this time, they exhibit depressive symptoms that include:
- Low energy
- Depressed mood
- Hopelessness
A person with bipolar disorder may experience symptoms of depression and mania simultaneously.
Bipolar II
People with bipolar II disorder may have periods of depression and hypomania. Hypomania is a less severe form of mania and may not require hospitalization.
Cyclothymic disorder
Cyclothymic disorder causes less severe manic and depressive symptoms that do not meet the criteria for manic or depressive episodes.
There is no cure for bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder must find treatments that can help them manage their symptoms for life.
Agape Behavioral Center accepts many private insurance plans
Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a serious, lifelong mental health condition. People with bipolar disorder must work with medical and mental health professionals to learn about their condition and develop effective ways to manage their symptoms.
Treatment for bipolar disorder may include:
- Inpatient hospitalization during manic or depressive episodes
- Medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers
- Talk therapy
- Education
- Self-care strategies, including regular exercise, mindfulness, a nutritious diet, and staying socially active
- Light therapy to reduce seasonal depression
- Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) to reduce severe depression
- Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to reduce depression
People with bipolar disorder must work with mental health professionals who can create effective treatment programs. It isn’t possible to cure bipolar disorder. People must continue to manage their symptoms for the rest of their lives.
Common Therapy for Bipolar Disorder
Talk therapy is an important part of a comprehensive mental health treatment plan. Here are some of the most common forms of therapy used to treat bipolar disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people identify and change destructive patterns of thoughts and behaviors.
CBT helps people understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. It can give people practical coping tools that can positively impact their functioning and quality of life.
Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT)
People with bipolar disorder benefit from creating regular routines. Sleeping, eating, socializing, and other activities on a structured schedule can help people manage their symptoms.
Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) can help people stabilize their daily rhythms. People develop routines to structure their sleep, eating, and other activities. This type of therapy may also include keeping a daily journal to keep track of physical and mental health.
Family-Focused Therapy (FFT)
Family-focused therapy (FFT) focuses on educating and supporting people with bipolar disorder and their family members. People with bipolar disorder and their families work with a mental health professional to learn about this condition.
During sessions, family members learn about effective coping strategies and warning signs of manic or depressive episodes. Families also work together to improve communication and solve problems.
Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation can help people learn about mental health conditions. Learning about bipolar disorder can reduce isolation, shame, and guilt. It can also help people develop healthy strategies to manage symptoms.
Bipolar disorder can impact every aspect of a person’s life. Comprehensive treatment and ongoing support can help people manage their symptoms and live the life they choose.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love needs treatment for bipolar disorder or another mental health disorder, you are not alone. Reach out to the specialists at Agape Behavioral Health to learn about our treatment and support programs. Contact us today to learn about our holistic programs to treat personality disorders, mood disorders, and other conditions.
References:
- JAMA Network: Diagnosis and Treatment of Bipolar Disorder
- American Psychological Association (APA): Diagnosing and treating bipolar spectrum disorders
- Psychiatry Online: Evidence-Based Psychotherapies for Bipolar Disorder
